Content Reviewed by:
blackfin •
January.23.2025
Vertified Content
Jan 23, 2025
| Read Time: 3 minutes
At Southern Maryland Law, we have over 60 years of experience helping clients in Waldorf and beyond maximize their settlements.
Let’s break down what goes into a car accident settlement, explain Maryland-specific rules that may impact your case, and share tips to help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
What Is the Average Car Accident Settlement in Maryland?
The average car accident settlement in Maryland varies widely depending on several factors, including the severity of injuries, property damage, and liability issues.
However, settlements in Maryland often range from $10,000 for minor accidents to $1,000,000 or more for severe injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or permanent disability.
It’s important to note that the average settlement for car accident back and neck injury cases—among the most common types of injuries—can range from $20,000 to $100,000, depending on the extent of medical treatment and recovery time.
Factors Influencing Your Settlement Amount
Several key factors play a role in determining the value of your settlement.
1. Severity of Injuries
The more serious your injuries, the higher your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering damages. For example, spinal cord injuries or fractures typically result in higher settlements than soft tissue injuries.
2. Liability and Maryland’s Contributory Negligence Rule
Maryland follows the pure contributory negligence rule, one of the strictest in the nation, which holds that if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you cannot recover damages.
This rule makes it critical to have solid evidence showing the other party’s fault. Working with an experienced car accident attorney in Waldorf can help you gather the necessary proof, such as accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony.
3. Insurance Policy Limits
Most settlements are paid by the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Therefore, the amount you can recover may be limited by the policy’s coverage, which in Maryland is a minimum of $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injury.
4. Economic vs. Noneconomic Damages
Economic damages include measurable costs like medical bills and lost wages. Noneconomic damages, such as pain and suffering, are harder to quantify but can significantly impact your settlement. Maryland caps noneconomic damages at $920,000 for accidents occurring in 2024, increasing annually for inflation.
How to Maximize Your Settlement
If you’re pursuing compensation for a car accident, here are some practical steps to increase your settlement value:
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if your injuries seem minor, get a medical evaluation. Prompt treatment not only protects your health but also documents your injuries for your claim.
Document Everything
Keep detailed records of medical bills, lost income, and repair costs. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and property damage.
Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters Alone
Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts. Consult an attorney before giving any statements or signing documents.
Hire an Experienced Maryland Car Accident Lawyer
An experienced attorney understands Maryland’s laws and can negotiate effectively with insurance companies, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.
How Maryland Law Impacts Car Accident Settlements
Maryland’s contributory negligence rule underscores the importance of proving the other party was entirely at fault. For instance, if the other driver ran a red light and caused a rear-end collision, you’ll need clear evidence to support your claim.
Additionally, Maryland’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this timeframe means you may forfeit your right to compensation.
Why Southern Maryland Law?
At Southern Maryland Law, we treat you like family because, for us, Waldorf is more than just a location—it’s our home. With six decades of experience, we know Maryland law inside and out, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t face the insurance companies alone. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll help you determine the best course of action and fight to get you the settlement you deserve.
You Deserve Real People with Real Solutions
Car accidents are stressful, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Understanding the average car accident settlement in Maryland and taking proactive steps can help you recover the compensation you need to move forward. Let Southern Maryland Law be your partner in this journey.